Be Patient Raider Fans, We’re On Our Way !

The Raiders fell today to the Eagles 23-20. Two missed field goals from Sebastian Janikowski basically cost the Raiders the game. Granted, the Raiders are now 0-3, but positives can be found in all three losses. With each week, I see this team making strides. Let’s start with the offense.

Offense

Kerry Collins has been making good decisions, and good decisions have been a thorn in his side in the past. During the home opener, the Raiders were forced into using max protection schemes to help offset the pressure. Today, the offensive line gave Kerry the time to pick and choose his targets. Collins ended the day 24-42, 345 yards passings and two touchdowns.

Defense

Pressure! That is something Raider fans haven’t seen in years. Warren Sapp, Ted Washington and the emergence of Derrick Burgess are stepping up every week. Burgess, who was a situational player is now seeing more action. McNabb was flushed out of the pocket most of the game. Rob Ryan (Raiders defensive coordinator) is doing a great job putting the right players in the right places. Charles Woodson is now playing cornerback and safety. Derrick Gibson is also playing multiple positions: safety and linebacker. Rookies’ Kirk Morrison, Stanford Routt and Fabian Washington are starting to learn the speed of the NFL…

Special Teams

Joe Avezzano has his special teams squad playing rather well. What was a weakness a few years ago, Joe has turned into a positive. It’s only a matter of time before rookie Chris Carr takes one to the house.

With all three sides of the team improving every week, it’s only a matter of time before the Raiders right this ship and return back to their winning ways!